Aged Care Quality Standards – Things You Must Know

As our loved one’s age, the need for quality care becomes increasingly important. In Australia, the Aged Care Quality Standards act as a vital framework, ensuring that older Australians receive the dignified and respectful treatment they deserve. But what exactly are these standards, and what do they mean for caregivers and families? 

Let’s delve into the world of Aged Care Quality Standards and gain a deeper understanding of their significance. 

What are Aged Care Quality Standards? 

The Aged Care Quality Standards are a set of eight key principles that outline the minimum expectations for the care and services provided to older Australians. These standards are established by the Australian Government and apply to all Aged Care services supported by government funding. 

Regardless of whether you receive care in your own home or within an Aged Care facility, the Aged Care Quality Standards serve as a crucial measure of what constitutes good care. All providers of government-funded Aged Care are obligated to adhere to these eight standards, which embody the community’s expectations for the level of care and services they should receive. The responsibility for evaluating and overseeing government-funded Aged Care Services in relation to the Quality Standards falls upon the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission. 

8 Aged Care Quality Standards 

Following are 8 standards of Aged Care in Australia:  

Consumer Dignity and Choice 

This standard ensures that older Australians are treated with dignity and respect, and that they have the right to make informed choices about their care. 

Organisation’s Governance and Management 

This standard ensures that Aged Care providers have effective governance and management systems in place. 

Personal and Clinical Care 

This standard ensures that older Australians receive the necessary personal and clinical care, including medication management and pain relief. 

Services and Supports for Daily Living

This standard ensures that older Australians receive the necessary assistance with daily living activities, such as eating, dressing, and bathing. 

Organisation’s Service Environment 

This standard ensures that older Australians receive appropriate care and support for continence needs. 

Feedback And Complaints

This standard ensures that Aged Care providers have a system for receiving and responding to feedback and complaints. 

Human Resources 

This standard ensures that Aged Care providers have the right staff in place to provide quality care. 

Organisational Governance 

Under this standard organisations’ governing body is accountable for the delivery of safe and quality care and services. 

By understanding these standards, caregivers and families can: 

• Be better informed about the level of care their loved ones should expect to receive. 
• Hold Aged Care providers accountable for meeting these standards. 
• Work with Aged Care providers to ensure that their loved ones receive the best possible care. 

Quality Standard for Aged Care Homes 

The Aged Care Quality Standards provide a national framework for ensuring consistent and high-quality care across all Aged Care Homes in Australia.  

However, Another way to measure how well Aged Care Homes are meeting these standards is through the Aged Care Star Ratings system. This system awards homes a rating of between 1 and 5 stars, with 5 stars indicating the highest level of performance across four key areas. Clinical care, Living environment, Staffing and Residents’ experiences of care. 

The star ratings offer a valuable tool for comparing and choosing Aged Care Homes. By providing transparent information about a home’s performance against the Quality Standards, the system empowers residents and their families to make informed decisions about their care. 

Read more about: Aged Care Home Star Ratings 

 
Why Contact CareAbout before Choosing a Provider? 

Navigating the often-complex world of Aged Care can be overwhelming. While understanding the Aged Care Quality Standards is crucial, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. At CareAbout, we understand the importance of personalised care tailored to the unique needs and preferences of our older Australians.  

Whether you are seeking assistance with daily living activities through Home Care Packages or considering Nursing Home placement services, CareAbout connects you with My Aged Care accredited quality Home Care Providers and Nursing Homes across Australia. Our dedicated team of experienced and compassionate professionals are committed to providing the quality care in the comfort and familiarity of your loved one’s own home. 

Contact CareAbout today for a free consultation and let us help you find the Home Care, Aged Care, or Nursing Home support that meets your loved one’s specific needs and ensures their well-being and happiness.